Railroaded

Terre Haute was built by railroads, and was a major player in forming industry throughout the midwest. It is clear today that railroads infiltrate parts of Terre Haute that were once outside of the city common. Since growth of the actual city limits, railroad tracks and routes have not changed much. Traveling through each side of the city, you will come across railroad crossings. Time stands still in Terre Haute at times, as trains control movement throughout the city.

Terre Haute was a major hub for shipping goods by trains, and were an important need for businesses both old and new, to flourish. Today, many railroad tracks are not in use, primarily because of Interstate 70, which is now the main hub for product transportation. What can be done to eliminate the tracks that lay still and create unused space, boundaries and obstructions in travel?

For those that live and work in Terre Haute, the railroad system is a nuisance. It is common to be stopped at a crossing and have no route around it, as most crossings are traditional ground-level crossings. One train can stop movement throughout the city, and seemingly will stop you from going anywhere or arriving on time. I can't begin to count how many times I have arrived late, or not arrived at all, because of a stopped train. It's a common and valid excuse that even the most stringent people have dealt with. All you have to say is "a train", and it is understood why you weren't on time.

I say we tear down the railroad tracks that are not in use. I don't see why it would be so costly to remove the tracks, railroad ties and rock. In return, we would free land that could be used more efficiently, increase traffic flow, and not be confined by the railroad system. In addition to removal of unused tracks, we should also create over or underpasses for major streets that would eliminate frustration by travelers. Creating one overpass per year would be a good start.

To better understand the train aspect of Terre Haute, all you need to do is travel east on Margaret Avenue during the busiest part of the day. When you are stopped by a train, or the train simply stops on the tracks, don't turn around and find a way around the crossing because you won't find it. The best advice I can give you is to not hate the train, it is only steel and iron, and serves Terre Haute on a daily basis. Relax and wait, it's all you can do.